1 fatal · Robinson R-22 Beta · 2003-08-25 · Encinitas, CA, USA
Event
NTSB number
LAX03FA282
Event ID
20030904X01456
Type
Accident
Date
2003-08-25
Location
Encinitas, CA, USA
Coordinates
32.815555, -117.139442
Injuries
Highest injury
FATL
Fatal
1
Serious
0
Minor
0
Uninjured
0
Total aboard
1
Aircraft
Make
Robinson
Model
R-22 Beta
Registration
N8049V
FAR Part
091
Engines
1
Damage
DEST
Conditions
Light
DAYL
Weather
IMC
Probable cause
The student pilot's spatial disorientation and inadvertent descent into the ocean while maneuvering to avoid inclement weather. Also causal was the flight instructor's inadequate supervision due to his improper approval of his student's preflight preparation and failure to ensure that the flight could be performed under visual flight rules. Contributing factors were the low cloud condition, and the student's improper weather evaluation and preflight planning.